The LA Clippers will once again be without big Serge Ibaka when they take on the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night.
Ibaka, who lost competition Monday, is currently recovering from lower back pressure. He had previously been skeptical about playing, but coach Tyronn Lue confirmed he was reduced before the game.
Ibaka was initially injured against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday, going down late in the first quarter. He has never returned to the game and has been away ever since.
Fortunately, the Clippers still have a strong, young backing available in Ivica Zubac. The 23-year-old started in Ibaka’s place on Monday and picked up 15 points, 11 rebounds, steals and aided Clippers career 35 minutes of action. While it can’t stretch the floor like Ibaka can, Zubac is a better choice to score at the edge and protect the paint.
The Clippers will also be without Patrick Beverley, who was previously denied for all three games of the LA road trip. The veterans left early with a knee injury in the Clippers’ win over the Golden State Warriors last week and have yet to return to the floor. Reggie Jackson will start in his place.
The LA Clippers take on the Dallas Mavericks at 6:30 p.m. PT.
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